Frequently asked questions

Is ADHD real?

Yes it is. ADHD is a recognised condition which actually affects around 1 in 20 people of school age in the UK.1 There isn't one particular reason why people get ADHD. We still don't really know how ADHD develops, but it seems to be biological.

Can ADHD be cured?

ADHD can respond well to treatment, and the good news is there are a range of treatments available, including therapies that treat behaviour and various medicines. While there is no exact ‘cure’ for ADHD, many people manage their symptoms with the help of treatment, and so that they have little or no disruption to their lives. Once your specialist team has carried out all the tests, they will know the best management and treatment plan for you.

Will I have ADHD for life?

Unfortunately, ADHD doesn’t always disappear as you grow into adulthood, but the symptoms often change. Each individual is different, but there are some overall trends:

Teenagers with ADHD may be less hyperactive than they were as children, so their ADHD is not so obvious to others9

Impulsiveness can still be a problem — speaking out of turn, losing your temper, breaking rules9

Inattention can also remain a problem — being disorganised, forgetful, losing concentration9

Because of all this, you may find that for you, the process of breaking free from your parents and becoming an independent adult takes a bit longer than for some of your friends who don’t have ADHD.

How long will I need treatment for ADHD?

Everyone is different, and so 'the most effective treatment' programme varies between individuals. The length of time you will receive treatment cannot be fixed in advance. Treatment may continue for a couple of years and may even continue into adulthood in some cases. Occasionally, your doctor may recommend that you stop taking your medication for a while so that they can see how you get on; this is called a treatment holiday, and you should only ever do this when a doctor has told you to.

Hints and tips

References

ADHD is an abbreviation for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical care. As always if you have any concerns about you or your child’s health or medication you should consult your specialist or general practitioner. This site is published by Janssen-Cilag Limited, which is solely responsible for the content. It is intended for a UK audience.